Difference Between Acquired and Inherited Traits
Genetic makeup is the defining factor of every living organism’s characteristics, ranging from the color of the eyes to the way we think and feel. These traits may be acquired through inheritance or accumulated throughout one’s life. Acquired and inherited traits are two types that can be observed in every organism. However, many are unaware of the differences between them.
Acquired Traits
Acquired traits are those that are gained through an organism’s environmental experiences, such as how we learn to speak or ride a bicycle. In simple terms, acquired traits are learned behavior that happens throughout an individual’s lifetime. Although genes play an essential role in an organism’s overall development, acquired traits do not get passed down to the next generation.
One of the most common examples of acquired traits is the acquired immune system. The immune system is the body’s defense mechanism against foreign organisms like bacteria and viruses. Unlike innate immunity, which is inherited and present from birth, acquired immunity is developed through contact with infectious pathogens. An immune response is triggered, and the antibodies produced help fight the pathogen, which can then be passed on to future generations.
Inherited Traits
Inherited traits refer to characteristics that are passed down from one generation to another through the genetic material known as DNA. These traits determine physical features like body type, hair color, and eye color, as well as internal characteristics such as blood type and organ function.
Inherited traits can be dominant or recessive. Dominant traits are those that will appear even if only one parent contributes the gene responsible. Examples include dimples or a cleft chin. Recessive traits only appear when both parents contribute the gene. Examples of recessive traits include blue eyes or freckles.
The Difference Between Acquired and Inherited Traits
The primary difference between these two types of traits is that acquired traits get developed throughout an individual’s lifetime and, therefore, only have a limited impact on future generations. In contrast, inherited traits originate from an organism’s genetic makeup and will continue to impact future generations.
Inherited traits offer a wealth of knowledge into a person’s genetic makeup, making it possible to predict susceptibility to certain diseases or disorders. Whereas acquired traits are individualized experiences and often cannot be predicted or inherited.
Conclusion
In summary, acquired and inherited traits are the two types of characteristics observed in every organism. Acquired traits are developed throughout an individual’s life and cannot be passed down to the next generation, while inherited traits originate from the genetic makeup and continue to impact future generations. Understanding these concepts is crucial to recognizing how various traits and characteristics are passed down and manifested.
Table difference between acquired and inherited traits
| Acquired Traits | Inherited Traits |
|---|---|
| Acquired traits develop during an individual’s lifetime and are usually the result of an individual’s interaction with their environment. | Inherited traits are passed down from parents to offspring through genes and DNA. |
| Examples of acquired traits include a tan from exposure to the sun, muscle development from exercise, and scars from injuries. | Examples of inherited traits include eye color, hair color, and height. |
| Acquired traits are usually not passed down to offspring. | Inherited traits are passed down to offspring and can be seen in multiple generations. |
| Acquired traits are usually reversible or can be lost over time. | Inherited traits are usually stable and do not change much over time. |